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The main way by which the prickly pear cactus [Opuntiaspp] survives is through growing low to the ground. It does so as a plant that sports prickly pads, or as one that has low branching arms. This particular growth pattern decreases the distance that drops of moisture travel from the plant's modified leaves to the ground, for intake by the plant's roots. It thereby decreases the time during which that precious moisture is exposed to the evaporation possibilities inherent in any interaction with the desert's bright, hot sunlight.
This particular growth pattern also shades the ground immediately around and below the cactus. It cools the soil. Consequently, less encouragement is given to evaporation of water that's on or close to the soil surface. So the measure is a move that conserves water.
Another important survival strategy is through growing jointed pads or branching arms. The joints may break off and fall to the ground, where they root and thereby form other prickly pear cactus plants. The result may be the formation of an entire community where once there was only one prickly pear cactus.
Still another survival trick is through growing defensive body parts. The prickly pear cactus has modified leaves in the form of barbed spines on the pads, and bristled tufts on the branching arms. Either way, the spines and the bristles discourage predators. They also direct any available moisture - be it dew, fog or rain - to the ground, for intake by the plant's roots.
What else can I help you with?
What is the state plant of Texas?
The Prickly Pear Cactus
Could a prickly pear cactus survive in a desert explain your answer?
No
How are cactus and prickly pear able to survive in the desert while tea plants cannot?
they are succulents and retain water in their leaves.
What is a prickly plant starting with A?
Aaron's beard prickly pear cactus and the Arizona barrel cactus are prickly plants. They begin with the letter A.
Is a prickly pear cactus a carnivore?
Prickly pears are plants, therefore are neither carnivores or herbivores.
Is the prickly pear and cactus relationship mutualism or commensalism?
A prickly pear is a cactus. There is no commensalism or mutualism.
Where does the prickly pear cactus live?
on a pear
A type of prickly plant?
There are several types of prickly plants. Some of these plants include cactus, milk thistle, prickly pear, and prickly poppy.
What is the name of the fruit of the cactus?
The fruit of the cactus is commonly known as a prickly pear or cactus pear. It is a sweet and flavorful fruit that grows on certain species of cacti.
Is a prickly pear cactus an animal?
No, a cactus is a plant, not an animal.
What prickly plant begins with the letter A?
apricot prickly pear cactus
What eats a prickly pear cactus?
your nan
